A Startling Discovery in the Gulf of Mexico

In the year 2000, a mysterious and beautiful new creature made a dramatic appearance in the Gulf of Mexico. This was the first mass sighting of what would come to be known as the pink meanie jellyfish.

Initially, scientists believed it to be a known species, but further investigation revealed something far more exciting. This was an entirely new type of jellyfish, a discovery that would rewrite a chapter in marine biology.

What Exactly is a Pink Meanie?

The pink meanie, with the scientific name Drymonema larsoni, is a species of jellyfish that is so unique it was placed in its own family, Drymonematidae, in 2010. This classification came after DNA analysis showed it was distinct from the lion’s mane jellyfish, to which it was once thought to be related.

The name Drymonema larsoni was given by researcher Keith Bayha in honor of Ron Larson, a biologist who had studied these jellyfish in the Caribbean decades earlier. The common name, “pink meanie,” perfectly captures its striking color and predatory nature.

The Striking Appearance of a Carnivorous Beauty

True to its name, the pink meanie jellyfish is a visually stunning creature. In the water, it resembles a floating piece of cotton candy, with a vibrant, rosy-pink bell that can reach up to three feet in diameter. However, its beauty is matched by its impressive size.

This jellyfish can weigh up to 50 pounds and boasts an incredible feature: tentacles that can stretch up to 70 feet long. These numerous, fine tentacles are what make the pink meanie such an effective predator.

A Jellyfish That Eats Other Jellyfish

Unlike many other jellyfish that feed on small fish and zooplankton, the adult pink meanie has a very specific diet: other jellyfish. Its primary prey is the moon jellyfish, a common species in the same waters.

This predatory behavior is a key aspect of the pink meanie’s ecological role. The jellyfish’s life cycle is closely tied to the abundance of its food source, appearing in large numbers when moon jellyfish populations are high.

Where Can You Find the Pink Meanie?

The pink meanie is a rare sight, but it has been found in several locations around the world. Its primary habitat is the northern Gulf of Mexico, but it has also been spotted in the Mediterranean Sea and off the coast of South Africa.

Recent years have seen notable blooming events along the Texas coast, offering a unique opportunity for beachgoers and researchers to observe this elusive creature. These appearances are typically in the late summer and early fall, when the water is warm and moon jellyfish are plentiful.

A Mild-Mannered Meanie? The Truth About its Sting

With a name like “pink meanie” and its formidable size, one might expect a dangerous sting. However, the pink meanie’s sting is relatively mild to humans. Researchers who have handled them describe the sensation as a slight tingling or a minor rash.

Because the pink meanie preys on other jellyfish, it doesn’t need the powerful toxins required to subdue fish or other fast-moving prey. While caution is always advised with any jellyfish, the pink meanie is not considered a significant threat to people.

An Important Player in the Marine Ecosystem

The pink meanie plays a crucial role in its environment. By preying on moon jellyfish, it helps to control their populations. This is important because large numbers of moon jellyfish can negatively impact local ecosystems by consuming large quantities of zooplankton.

By keeping the moon jellyfish population in check, the pink meanie helps to protect shellfish and fish larvae, which are vital to the overall health of the marine food web. This makes the pink meanie a beneficial and important part of its ecosystem.

Recent Blooms and Rare Sightings

In the fall of 2025, the Texas coast experienced a significant bloom of pink meanie jellyfish. Researchers and beachcombers reported numerous sightings, providing a rare glimpse into the life of this fascinating creature.

These events are a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the ocean. The appearance of the pink meanie is a special event, a chance to witness a rare and beautiful animal that plays a vital role in the hidden world beneath the waves.